Applications open for financially viable solutions for the environment and society

SINGAPORE —In an era where talk of sustainability often outweighs tangible action, Singapore’s Stewardship Asia Centre, INSEAD Hoffmann Global Institute for Business and Society, WTW, and The Straits Times are highlighting companies that lead by example. Now in its upcoming fourth year, SL25 honors solutions to some of society’s most urgent challenges that successfully marry purpose and profit.

Steward leadership, characterized by a deep-seated commitment to fostering a collective better future for stakeholders, society, future generations, and the environment, is not merely a noble pursuit but a strategic business imperative. It seeks to establish an optimal approach to growth and achieving prosperity that benefits employees, shareholders, and society.

Open to for-profit entities across all sectors, SL25 invites solutions that have generated positive societal and environmental impacts. This year saw a record 139 applications from 122 organizations across 25 countries. Selected projects spanned 15 industries and made an impact in 12 countries, including Australia, China, India, Myanmar, Singapore, and Vietnam. Applicants included 39% large corporations and 61% SMEs and social enterprises.

The shortlisted projects tackled challenges in environmental sustainability and community upliftment, representing various industries, such as financial services, healthcare, agribusiness, food and beverage, energy, and real estate.

For example, BlueAcres, a privately owned microfarm in Singapore, has pioneered an autism-friendly employment model, bridging the labor gap in Singapore’s farming industry. This initiative reduces the social burden on caregivers while enhancing life skills for individuals with autism and promoting sustainable farming practices.

In the Philippines, San Miguel Aerocity Inc. was recognized for its Biodiversity Offset Program, which aims to prevent net habitat loss and promote a net gain in critical habitats impacted by the New Manila International Airport project.

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